Beth Israel Congregation
Board Minutes
August 23, 2006

Present: Finerman, Dobrusin, Rashes, Bernstein, Gershowitz, Landau, Liberman-Lampear, L. Adler, D. Adler, Bardenstein, Sussman, Lamm, Bareket, Rubenstein, Winkelman, Peller

Meeting called to order at 8:07 p.m.
Agenda was approved as presented.
Minutes were corrected and approved.

The D'var Torah given by R. Dobrusin highlighted his recent visit to Alaska and coincidental reunion with the daughter and son-in-law of Gerda Seligson. A new bi-weekly study program for 8th � 12th graders will be held from 4 � 5:30 p.m. on Shabbat afternoon, beginning on September 16. An article in the Forward newspaper of August 23 noted the ordination issue with mention of Beth Israel's outreach letter.

Sussman introduced Eial Dujovny, our new Programs Director. Eial briefly introduced himself to the board, providing background information and his plans relating to program enhancement.

President's Report: The photo directory project has begun. Finerman extended wishes to all for a lovely High Holy Day season.

Treasurer's Report: Anita Liberman-Lampear submitted the July 06 financial report. There is a deficit showing in net income, which will be offset as the dues payments are sent in.

Security Recommendations were made by Rashes. They include: a fence around the playground; consultation with a professional to assess needs and feasibility; walkie-talkie radios (other than cell phones) to assure communications; children to be escorted to 2010 at all times; police security on High Holy Days and Shabbat; camera repositioned at lobby area; ushers at every Shabbat service, to welcome people and for security.

New Business: It was emphasized that seats may not be saved during High Holy Day services. Announcement to be made from the Bimah. There is also an announcement in the High Holy Day guide that seats may not be saved after 9 a.m.

Sussman presented the idea of a sign on the berm area to welcome and inform. It might include service schedule. A subcommittee of Sussman, Winkelman and Bardenstein will check on zoning, city ordinance and any restriction issues. Architect Larry Rockind will be consulted if the sign issue becomes a reality.

Religious VP Bernstein expressed satisfaction with the selection of our new Program Director. The committee plans to revisit "Tefillin with breakfast" on Sunday mornings, at a nominal fee.

Administrative VP Rashes requests that Board members volunteer to be hosts at all services.

Membership VP Gershowitz reported that continuing program ideas are being implemented, such as Shabbat Dinners, Learner's Minyans and welcoming baskets for new members

Communications Secretary Landau informed the Board that the mailing of the ordination issue letter was completed.

Women's League: Peller noted that the membership has increased. The opening event for the year �Bejeweled and Bedazzled� is Sunday, Sept 10

Meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Sherri Peller
Recording Secretary

Please send comments or suggestions to The Beth Israel Webmaster.